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Immigration Resources

Last updated: April 18, 2025

Recent changes in federal immigration policy have created uncertainty throughout the Virginia Tech community. We recognize that these developments may impact international students, scholars, faculty, and staff across the university.

International students and scholars have long been a vital part of Virginia Tech, enriching our academic community with diverse perspectives, talent, and innovation. The university is committed to supporting those who may be affected. We will continue to provide clear, timely information and guidance to help our community navigate evolving federal policies in compliance with the law. University resources and support services are listed below.

Frequently asked questions

We know that many members of the Virginia Tech community are concerned about immigration issues. This page provides answers to a number of the most frequent questions we have received. We will update this guidance as warranted.

NOTE: The following general information is not a substitute for legal advice. You should consult an attorney if you have specific legal questions about your particular situation.

The Cranwell International Center is maintaining a webpage that serves as a central hub for communicating key updates on policy changes that may affect international students. Our goal is to keep you updated with timely, accurate information.

Contact the Virginia Tech Police Department at 540-231-6411. Virginia Tech Police will coordinate with university officials to respond appropriately to the request.

Members of the Virginia Tech community, including students and alumni, have had their Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) records terminated, which generally means they must leave the U.S. immediately. We are not aware of any immigration actions affecting Virginia Tech faculty or staff.

The university conducts frequent reviews of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), a U.S. government database managed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). If a visa revocation or other status change occurs, the Cranwell International Center or Global Strategic Services will contact the affected individuals directly by email.

A visa is a travel document issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate that allows an individual to travel to a U.S. port of entry. It does not guarantee entry into the United States. Upon arrival, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer determines whether the individual may enter and for how long. 
 
Status, on the other hand, refers to the specific category and conditions under which someone is allowed to stay in the U.S., as recorded on their I-94 form. For students, this means maintaining a full course load and adhering to the rules of their visa classification. An individual may have an expired visa but still be in valid status if they remain in the U.S. and comply with all immigration rules.

Visa revocation means the U.S. government has canceled a previously issued visa, making it invalid for entry or re-entry into the country. 

Status termination (often through termination of an I-20 or DS-2019 form) refers to the loss of a person's legal standing to remain in the U.S. under a specific visa category. This generally requires the individual to leave the country immediately.

Virginia Tech does not make individual travel decisions for students or employees. However, we recommend that members of our international community reconsider all nonessential international travel. 

Individuals traveling under nonimmigrant visa status (F-1, J-1, H-1B) or as lawful permanent residents (green card holders) should consider:

  • Traveling with a clean laptop, tablet, and phone.
  • Backing up sensitive or personal information before departure.
  • Being prepared for possible secondary inspection at U.S. ports of entry, where customs and immigration officials may review social media and electronic communications.

Faculty and staff can best support affected students by referring them to appropriate resources, maintaining their privacy, and being flexible with academic accommodations when possible. Contact the Cranwell International Center for guidance on specific situations. Faculty should not provide immigration advice but can help students connect with campus resources.

Resources

For your immediate questions on:

Visa-related topics for students
Cranwell International Center
international@vt.edu, 540-231-6527

Visa-related topics for faculty/staff
Global Strategic Services
vtgss@vt.edu

AdvantageVT and Intensive English students
Language and Culture Institute
lci-info@vt.edu, 540-231-9814